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Learn How To Cook With HelloFresh

I never thought I would be able to cook such tasty meals until I started using HelloFresh

I'd just come from my physical, and my doctor's voice still echoed in my mind. "You only walk? You'll be 30 next year. You're far too young for walking to be your sole form of exercise. You must do something about your health."

So I went for a walk to think things over. I've been a bit pudgy my whole life. I'm a homebody, me lounging on the couch after work, Netflix frequently asking me, "Are you still watching?" I don't eat the best either, but can I help it if my parents aren't gourmet cooks? They raised me on Hot Pockets and Pringles Cheddar Cheese--still my faves.

I stopped into my local grocery store and felt totally intimidated by the fruit and veggies. I can't tell a scallion from celery, from--what's it called--back-choy? So I caved and stuffed my basket with cookies, chicken nuggets, and salsa (salsa's a veggie, right)?

After polishing off a dinner of Salsa-n-Nuggets, I was washing my hands when I caught a glimpse of myself in the bathroom mirror. Holy moly! My face was pink and bloated. That's when it really hit me. The doctor's right--I've got to revolutionize my diet.

First, I checked out online cooking classes, but they were expensive, and the grocery lists needed were kind of intimidating. So that's out. Then I stumbled upon the most amazing thing...a meal kit service called HelloFresh. Instead of me going on grocery runs, they'd send me fresh, pre-measured ingredients and tasty recipe instructions straight to my door.

I clicked on their Low Calorie Menu, and wow--the photos made me outright drool. For next week, there were 21 different recipe options available from a wide variety of cuisines. It seemed so awesome that I signed right up. I'd receive 2 recipes per week at 2 servings per recipe--I figured I'd eat any leftovers for lunch.

I selected the Tex-Mex Beef & Poblano Enchiladas with Pico de Gallo & Lime Crema, cooking time: 40 mins. And I took a huge risk with the Bavette Steak & Roasted Garlic Pan Sauce w/ mashed potatoes and asparagus--how gourmet!! Another 40 minute meal? I had serious doubts I could make this work.

Tex-Mex Beef & Poblano EnchiladasTex-Mex Beef & Poblano Enchiladas

My first HelloFresh box arrived the following Monday. Truthfully, I left work early because I was that excited. When I opened the fully recyclable box, I checked the meat and the contents of the brown bags. The ingredients were perfectly portioned, fresh, and clearly labeled. Asparagus--it was the first time seeing that in my kitchen.

Laying the ingredients out on the counter, my heart was pounding with anxiety because I was convinced it would take me 5 hours to put together the Bavette Steak. And on top of that, it would taste horrible, and the kitchen would be completely trashed.

But taking a look at the HelloFresh recipe cards, I calmed down. The instructions were easy to follow, and I executed them step by step. From cutting board to plate only took me an hour!!

A mere 60 minutes, and I was digging into my very first, cooked-by-myself, homemade meal. The steak was a show-stopper. I mean, who cooked this? It was juicy, tender, and the garlic sauce was to die for.

Once I knew my carrots from parsnips, there was no going back to Salsa-n-Nuggets. After two months with HelloFresh, I felt completely confident about my cooking skills because it's totally stress-free, thanks to the recipe cards, clear instructions, minimal prep, and cleanup time. So I upped my HelloFresh subscription to three recipes a week and kept sampling meals from the Low Calorie Plan.

Unlike my mom and dad, I've become a gourmet chef! So next week they're coming over for dinner. Not sure what I'm serving yet--maybe the Cherry Balsamic Chicken with Almond Couscous and Roasted Carrots. Yummm. Whatever it is, they'll be impressed. And they'll be happy to see that I'm eating healthier these days, thanks to HelloFresh.

Update: Our friends at HelloFresh are extending a special New Year's offer to our readers. Follow this link to get 10 meals free, including free shipping!

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HelloFresh Helped Me Become A Flexitarian

As a kid, I was weirdly obsessed with cows, so when I found out what hamburgers were really made of, I had a full-on breakdown.

I refused to eat meat for a month, and my mom panicked that I'd stunt my growth. But then I had grandma's Lasagna Bolognese and literally forgot about the whole ordeal.

In my early 20's, I broke out with acne and tried cutting out dairy. As someone who love-love-loves cheese, I failed like, every day.

It's tough now because I've tried going vegan a few times in my life, and I genuinely feel better when I'm eating like that. I know my parents were super worried about my dabbling with veganism, but the amount of protein we can get from plants is astronomical! If only I had the discipline to sustain it...

I felt really guilty and beat myself up about it until I discovered "Flexitarianism."

It's like vegetarianism, but not as strict! It's apparently the ideal diet for athletes and is so much better than using meat as your main protein source.

Flexitarianism is a mostly plant-based diet with occasional meat or fish. I also like the flexibility in that if I go to a restaurant that's known for its juicy burgers, I don't have to order the one sad vegetarian option on the menu.

The only time I struggle is in my own kitchen. I make pasta with dairy-free pesto all the time, but it's getting boring, and I need more veggie options to mix it up.

My old roommate used to get HelloFresh, and it dawned on me that they have a vegetarian plan - I could use HF for my vegetarian meals, so I know I'd have at least 3 plant-based meals a week! They send you all of the pre-portioned ingredients you need, as well as step by step recipe cards that make whipping up a yummy meal at home super easy.

I went online, and even though they had some mouth-watering meat and fish options, I wanted to use it as a plant-based back-up.

For my very first meal, I chose a Roasted Vegetable Paella. With rice and garlic and the roasted savory goodness of the veggies, I was all in.

Most of HelloFresh's recipes take around 30 minutes, but of course, I picked a 45-minute recipe. Hilariously, it took exactly 45 minutes, nearly to the second.

My ingredients arrived individually portioned in recyclable packaging, and the instructions were clear as can be. I often battle with awkward wording in recipes, but this was so clear and easy-to-follow.

After 45 minutes, I looked down at my brightly colored home-cooked paella and dug in. It. was. Amazing! I actually had completely forgotten I was doing no-meat recipes only.

Roasted Vegetable PaellaRoasted Vegetable Paella

What I love most about HelloFresh is the flexibility - if I have a friend coming over, I can add an extra meal to my order, without changing my plan and I could add extras like brownies or garlic bread.

With HelloFresh, I'm able to eat meat and fish only when I really want to - I don't feel like I need to pad my diet with meat, just to hit the right amount of protein when I'm getting such nutritious vegetarian meals from HelloFresh. All of the produce arrives so fresh, and I'm trying new vegetables or spice blends all the time.

It's also so much easier to cut down on meat when you're not tempted by grocery shopping. Because I shop less now, I'm more particular when I do shop. With HelloFresh, nothing goes to waste, so when I do grocery shop, I try to model my trips after my HF meals - how can I only buy what I'll use? I'm still figuring it out, but at least I know with my meal kits, I'm not wasteful.

I never knew that the convenience of food delivery would change my life so much, but it's been incredible.

I'm a proud flexitarian thanks to HelloFresh.

Update: Our friends at HelloFresh are extending a special New Year's offer to our readers. Follow this link to get 10 meals free, including free shipping!

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If You Haven't Bought a Meal Kit, This Black Friday Deal Will Change Your Mind

This Black Friday, Gift Yourself HelloFresh, From: You, To: You

Editor's note: HelloFresh has informed us that their Black Friday sale is extended!

The holiday season--a time for old friends, family gossip, and most importantly: food. As soon as the Halloween candy runs out, you have Thanksgiving leftovers in the fridge and sugar cookies and gift baskets on the counter for what feels like months. Indulging in the flavors of the holiday season is important (because tradition, also it tastes good). However, do it without making yourself sick by spending some time cooking real food.

This Black Friday, act fast to get $90 off with HelloFresh(that's worth 9 free meals). It's a meal kit that arrives on your doorstep once a week, providing you healthy, tasty recipes and ingredients you cook yourself.

Granted, it's not the typical Black Friday purchase. When you think of Black Friday, stampedes in stores hunting for electronics and clothes might sound more familiar. Some people live for the hectic retail adrenaline, but sometimes the self-improving, experiential gifts surprise you and end up being the best ones.

HelloFresh is one of those self-improvement gifts, and with their best offer of the year, it's time to treat yourself to something. You might be buying presents for others, but at least a couple of gift tags should read "from: you, to: you." It's a win-win--it's a fun, hands-on gift, but also one that can keep you feeling healthy during a season when you're expected to taste every pie on the table.

If you're one of these types of people below, HelloFreshjust might be for you this Black Friday:

1. The Professional Who's Too Busy for Everything

If you're someone who's too busy to even know where their nearest grocery store is, HelloFresh is for you. It takes only 30 minutes from opening the box to picking up the fork, so anyone can schedule a meal for 1/48th of their day. If you're going out of town, it's easy to skip a delivery with no charge, so even those with erratic schedules can make it work.

2. The Aspiring Chef

If you're obsessed with photographing food, saving recipes, and watching the cooking channel, but you end up barely cooking anything...it's time to change that. Every week there's 21+ different recipes to choose from that have been curated by Hellofresh's chefs, just for you.

Anyone who loves food is going to feel like a chef cooking the "Apricot Balsamic-Glazed Pork Tenderloin with Ginger Rice" or HelloFresh's "Butternut Squash Agnolotti in a Sage Brown Butter Sauce." Plus, the detailed recipe cards make it super easy for rookies.

3. The Family with a Newborn (sshhhhh)

Those congratulatory casseroles can only last for so long. If your family is still navigating how to leave home with a stroller, diaper bag, and an extra set of clothes in tow, a HelloFreshdinner that arrives right at your door might be your saving grace. Plus, everything is pre-portioned, so there's minimal prep and chopping required.

4. The Clueless in the Kitchen

Even if the height of your culinary skills is making toast, you could easily learn some new skills with HelloFresh's easy-to-follow recipes. No major culinary techniques, like braising or deep-frying, will ever be required. You mainly just need to know how to turn on the stovetop and follow instructions, and you'll be surprised how much you actually learn over the course of a couple weeks.

5. Recent Mover

If you've just moved to a new house or apartment and you're still getting used to your surroundings, HelloFresh is a great way to get into a healthy routine in your new home. Plus, you won't have to worry about trying to find your way around the local grocery store for ingredients. HelloFresh even has add-ons like garlic bread or different deserts--everything you need for the perfect night in your new home.

6. Empty Nester

People say it's harder to cook for less people, and that's definitely the case after your kids have moved out or are off to college. Luckily, HelloFresh makes it easy to cook for a smaller table, pre-portioning ingredients and servings. And if you're having friends over one week or the kids are back in town, HelloFresh even allows you to add additional recipes to your box for just that week, making it super customizable.

7. Anyone with Taste Buds

Honestly, anyone can cook, meaning HelloFresh is for everyone to try out. Plus, the recipes are lauded for being easy to follow, so it's accessible to anyone who's interested in a taste test. There's now over 21 recipes a week to choose from. They have veggie options, gourmet recipes and even a selection of low calorie options.

Mark your calendars for Black Friday. When there are so many deals, you'll want to take advantage of this one. Plus, they're offering $90 off including free shipping, so there's no better time to give yourself a gift. After carving the turkey, carve out one night a week to experiment with new foods by ordering HelloFresh on Black Friday.

Cyber Week Sale! The folks at HelloFresh have a special offer for our readers.Follow this link to get 9 meals free including free shipping!

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hellofresh black friday
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If You Haven't Bought a Meal Kit, This Extended Cyber Monday Deal Will Change Your Mind

This Cyber Monday, gift yourself HelloFresh, from: you, to: you

Editor's note: HelloFresh has informed us that their Cyber Monday sale is extended!

The holiday season--a time for old friends, family gossip, and most importantly: food. As soon as the Halloween candy runs out, you have Thanksgiving leftovers in the fridge and sugar cookies and gift baskets on the counter for what feels like months. Indulging in the flavors of the holiday season is important (because tradition, also it tastes good). However, do it without making yourself sick by spending some time cooking real food.

HelloFresh has extended their Cyber Monday Offer! It's the perfect time to try a meal kit -- get $90 off HelloFresh (that's worth 9 free meals + free shipping). It's a meal kit that arrives on your doorstep once a week, providing you healthy, tasty recipes and ingredients you cook yourself.

Granted, it's not the typical Cyber Monday purchase. When you think of Cyber Monday, stampedes in stores hunting for electronics the newest phones sounds familiar. Some people live for the hectic retail adrenaline, but sometimes the self-improving, experiential gifts surprise you and end up being the best ones.

HelloFresh is one of those self-improvement gifts, and with their best offer of the year, it's time to treat yourself to something. You might be buying presents for others, but at least a couple of gift tags should read "from: you, to: you." It's a win-win--it's a fun, hands-on gift, but also one that can keep you feeling healthy during a season when you're expected to taste every pie on the table.

If you're one of these types of people below, HelloFresh just might be for you this holiday season:

1. The Professional Who's Too Busy for Everything

If you're someone who's too busy to even know where their nearest grocery store is, HelloFresh is for you. It takes only 30 minutes from opening the box to picking up the fork, so anyone can schedule a meal for 1/48th of their day. If you're going out of town, it's easy to skip a delivery with no charge, so even those with erratic schedules can make it work.

2. The Aspiring Chef

If you're obsessed with photographing food, saving recipes, and watching the cooking channel, but you end up barely cooking anything...it's time to change that. Every week there's 21+ different recipes to choose from that have been curated by HelloFresh's chefs, just for you.

Anyone who loves food is going to feel like a chef cooking the "Apricot Balsamic-Glazed Pork Tenderloin with Ginger Rice" or HelloFresh's "Butternut Squash Agnolotti in a Sage Brown Butter Sauce." Plus, the detailed recipe cards make it super easy for rookies.

3. The Family with a Newborn (sshhhhh)

Those congratulatory casseroles can only last for so long. If your family is still navigating how to leave home with a stroller, diaper bag, and an extra set of clothes in tow, a HelloFresh dinner that arrives right at your door might be your saving grace. Plus, everything is pre-portioned, so there's minimal prep and chopping required.

4. The Clueless in the Kitchen

Even if the height of your culinary skills is making toast, you could easily learn some new skills with HelloFresh's easy-to-follow recipes. No major culinary techniques, like braising or deep-frying, will ever be required. You mainly just need to know how to turn on the stovetop and follow instructions, and you'll be surprised how much you actually learn over the course of a couple weeks.

5. Recent Mover

If you've just moved to a new house or apartment and you're still getting used to your surroundings, HelloFresh is a great way to get into a healthy routine in your new home. Plus, you won't have to worry about trying to find your way around the local grocery store for ingredients. HelloFresh even has add-ons like garlic bread or different deserts--everything you need for the perfect night in your new home.

6. Empty Nester

People say it's harder to cook for less people, and that's definitely the case after your kids have moved out or are off to college. Luckily, HelloFresh makes it easy to cook for a smaller table, pre-portioning ingredients and servings. And if you're having friends over one week or the kids are back in town, HelloFresh even allows you to add additional recipes to your box for just that week, making it super customizable.

7. Anyone with Taste Buds

Honestly, anyone can cook, meaning HelloFresh is for everyone to try out. Plus, the recipes are lauded for being easy to follow, so it's accessible to anyone who's interested in a taste test. There's now over 21 recipes a week to choose from. They have veggie options, gourmet recipes and even a selection of low calorie options.

When there are so many deals this time of year, you'll want to take advantage of this one. Plus, they're offering $90 off including free shipping, so there's no better time to give yourself a gift. After carving the turkey, carve out one night a week to experiment with new foods by ordering HelloFresh.

Cyber Monday Sale - Now Extended! The folks at HelloFresh have a special offer for our readers. Follow this link to get 9 meals free + free shipping!